OBITUARY

Steve Forrest

September 29, 1925 – May 18, 2013

Actor Steve Forrest, whose leading role as Lt. Hondo Harrelson of ABC-TV’s “S.W.A.T.” made him a household name in the 1970’s, died peacefully surrounded by family on Saturday, May 18th, 2013 in Thousand Oaks, California. He was 87.

Born William Forrest Andrews on September 25th, 1925 in Huntsville, Texas to Annis and Charles Andrews (a Baptist minister), Forrest was the youngest of 13 children.

At age 18 he enlisted in the military and served with the U.S. Army attaining the rank of Sergeant during World War II, where he fought in the historic Battle of the Bulge. At the end of the war, Forrest continued in the Army Reserve and moved to Los Angeles to pursue his college career. In 1946, while attending UCLA, he would meet his life-long love, Christine Carilas. The two were married in 1948 and remained together for 65 years until his death.

Forrest graduated with honors from UCLA in 1950 with a Bachelor’s degree in theater arts and went on to work as a stagehand at the renowned La Jolla Playhouse in southern California. It was there, during the summer stock production of “Goodbye Again”, that he was discovered by Hollywood legend, Gregory Peck. Peck cast him in the production and later arranged for his first screen test with MGM, where he was placed under contract.

In 1953, Forrest garnered the New Star of the Year, Golden Globe Award for his performance in the Warner Bros. film “So Big” playing opposite Jane Wyman and Sterling Hayden. Throughout the 1950’s, Forrest landed roles on both the large and small screens, frequently cast on classic early television series including “Playhouse 90,” “Climax! Theater,” “Lux Video Theater” and “Alfred Hitchcock Presents.”

His early films included roles as a P.O.W. opposite Ronald Reagan in MGM’s “Prisoner of War” (1954), Robert Taylor’s younger brother in “Rogue Cop” (1954), Doris Day’s would-be suitor in “It Happened to Jane” (1959), Elvis Presley’s half brother in the 20th Century Fox western “Flaming Star” (1960), Sophia Loren’s gun slinging love interest in Paramount’s “Heller in Pink Tights” (1960), and with John Wayne and an all star cast in “The Longest Day” (1962). Later, film and television appearances included “North Dallas Forty” (1979), “Mommie Dearest” (1981) with Faye Dunaway, “Spies Like Us” (1985) with Chevy Chase and Dan Akroyd, the TV miniseries “Hollywood Wives” (1985), a season on CBS-TV’s “Dallas” (1985), “Storyville” (1992) with James Spader and “Killer: A Journal of Murder” (1995) with James Woods.

A trained vocalist, Forrest made his Broadway debut as budding prizefighter, Bob Stanton in the 1958 production of “The Body Beautiful” playing opposite Mindy Carson, Jack Warden and Brock Peters.

In 1965, under contract to BBC, Forrest relocated to London with his family to star as John Mannering, the international antique-dealer-cum-secret-agent in the British crime drama, “The Baron.” The program marked the first color series on British television.

In a career spanning more the 60 years, Forrest was frequently cast as a leading man or protagonist “heavy”. An aficionado of the American western, Forrest delighted in roles that glorified the genre including guest starring appearances in such television classics as “The Virginian”, “Bonanza” and “Gunsmoke” among many others.

But it was his role as the hard-hitting yet warm-hearted Lt. Hondo Harrelson that most endeared Forrest to the American audience. As the leader of the police department’s five-man special weapons and tactics team, he was often seen with his bullhorn in hand, jumping into the large dark gray van shouting the signature line, “Let’s roll!” As a salute to the show, Forrest appeared in a cameo role as the van driver in the film version of “S.W.A.T.” (2003) with Samuel L. Jackson.

An avid and accomplished golfer, Forrest frequently played in charity tournaments around the world. In 1976, he competed on the American team at the Bing Crosby Great Britain vs. U.S.A. Tournament at the iconic Glen Eagles Course in Scotland. His performance on the greens so impressed Crosby he was heard to say “… Steve, you may have to give up your ‘amateur’ standing!”

Although devoted to his career, Forrest’s greatest passion in life remained his family. He is survived by his wife, Christine; sons, Michael Andrews, Forrest Andrews (Lori) of Los Angeles, Stephen Andrews (Sally) of Napa Valley; and his grandchildren, Samantha, Emily, Aubrey and Alex Andrews.

A service for family and friends will be held on Thursday, May 30, 2013 at 10:00 am at Pierce Brothers Valley Oaks-Griffin Memorial Park at 5600 Lindero Canyon Road, Westlake Village, CA 91362.

Denise Fetterly

Linda Taylor

May 8, 2014

You were an icon and we miss you. Your success is still with us through all your movies and TV Appearances. Be at Peace Hondo! Best to your family

Minnie Beltran

May 7, 2014

Steve you were one of my favorite actors. You had looks as well as talent. I know your resting in heaven. My prayer's are with your family. I'll keep watching your movies, you left wonderful memories!!!

Joe Leong

February 4, 2014

Steve, I'll always remember you as CPT Harding in 'The Longest Day', and Lt. 'Hondo' Harrelson in 'SWAT'. My mother and I are fans of yours.

December 19, 2013

As I understand, Steve Forrest was a member of the 97th Signal Battalion that served in Europe. This unit was inactivated in 1993 after serving 49 years in Europe. Members that served in the Battalion originated an Association and remains active. For information go to: sec_treas97sigbn@comcast.net.

David C. Harris 1948-51 Boeblingen, Germany

Denise Fetterly

September 29, 2013

Remembering Steve Forrest on his first birthday in Heaven. May happy memories of birthdays past give his family peace on this special day.

Judith B Saffron

August 29, 2013

So terribly sad to read that this great man passed away! He was my favorite actor for all time and finding him in so many movies and programs was always fun. My wishes and blessings go out to his beautiful wife and family.

bb santini

August 9, 2013

Steve forrest you were the best good looking cowboy good guy or bad , you will always be in my heart. Beautiful work, and etc. I know you are in cowboy heaven. Bb santini

Melissa Delgado

June 26, 2013

In remembrance of a wonderful actor and a precious human being.

Mel, Gloria, Kathy and Melody Olsen

June 12, 2013

To the family of Steve Forrest,

Our hearts were very saddened to learn of the loss of your loved one. Steve Forrest was a very gifted actor, and his work made him seem like a family friend. We greatly enjoyed the characters that he brought to life on television shows like “Gunsmoke,” “The Virginian,” and “Bonanza,” as well as movies like “It Happened to Jane,” “So Big,” and “Flaming Star.”

May God bless and comfort you all now with His love and the memories of happy times.

With deepest sympathy,

The Olsen Family

Denise Fetterly

June 11, 2013

To the Andrews family,My heart felt sympathy. It is so difficult to lose someone you love. After the loss of my own father three years ago this month, I found the grief almost too much to bear. Upon the urging of a friend who knew of my love of classic films and television, I began watching my favorites again. Steve Forrest holds such a special place in my heart. I remember watching his performances (S.W.A.T. in particular) as a child with my father. My admiration of him has carried on into my adult life. He impacted my life in a profound way and, without knowing it, came to my rescue in my time of need. Watching his performances has brought back happy memories of my days with my father which helped replace the sadness of his illness and death. I wish I could thank Mr Forrest for this. I'd like to think that, after the wonderful reunion he had in Heaven with all of the Andrews who have passed on before him, my father thanked him for me. It helps me to envision this and it is my hope that my story will somehow help you. In the early days of grief, it is so difficult to believe that the sadness will ever be lifted. I assure you, it will. Good memories will start to fill the void left by his passing and the promise of partaking in the joyous reunion which awaits us all will be a comfort. The separation is painful but isn't forever. Until then, I hope reliving fond memories will sustain you and it will help to know that Mr Forrest has touched the life of someone in a way he didn't imagine....and I am but one of many. He was a treasure who was and is much loved and will never be forgotten. God's blessings upon you all now and always,Denise Fetterly

Linda Taylor

June 6, 2013

The Entertainment World Lost a Great One and a Special Veteran from WWII. My favorite actor who I have followed for 40 years plus. I'm heart broken these last few weeks. Goodbye "Hondo" and rest in peace. My thoughts and prayers are with his wife and sons. Thank you for sharing him with the world

Pamela Speakman

June 1, 2013

My sister and I spent the summer of 1975 on the S.W.A.T. set through a family friend who was driver captain. Mr. Forrest was bigger than life to 2 teenage girls, but he was also very gracious. We became mascots of sorts, bringing hand-made gifts and homemade baked goods. Through it all, Mr. Forrest was kind and loving. I remember the hardy laugh at the bee poem I made for him, the tight hug for the SWAT engraved tie clasp I gave him and the many warm hellos. One time I was going out of stage 20 & in the darkness I heard his deep voice ask, "Where are you going?" I turned to see Mr. Forrest sitting in his chair. I told him to call Mom and he asked if I needed change for the phone and if I was coming right back. One night my dad came inside the studio(which he never did), to pick us up. Mr. Forrest introduced himself to Dad. He said Dad had lovely daughters and should never worry when we were there...that he was watching out for us. We attended the chapel service Thursday as we lost our Dad 3 yrs ago and felt as though Mr. Forrest was our summer of '75 second father. I have pulled out my extensive SWAT diary and have been reading and remembering. Thank you Mr. Forrest for giving us warm memories and being you.Pamela (Montellano)

Kathleen Penelli

May 31, 2013

My condolences to his family

Erin Hickey, Funeral Director

May 28, 2013

Thank you for allowing me to care for Steve and for your family at such a delicate time. It is quite apparent the accomplishments Steve earned in his lifetime though I'm sure his most valued achievement was helping to create such a talented and warm-hearted family.

Jolynn Galvin

May 27, 2013

His proudest accomplishment is the obvious devotion to his wife and family. His achievments in the entertainment world are incredible. There aren't many actors left like him. My sympathy to the family...

Charles Rhames

May 27, 2013

Steve Forrest was a great actor. I loved his performances. I'm so sorry for the loss to his family and to all his fans.

marv&cindie coleman

May 25, 2013

one of the greatest americans to serve our country and the film industry...a big round of applause was heard -as he entered gates of heaven..."

m.coleman&family houston

Lorraine Williams

May 25, 2013

To: The Andrews Family, I know what a difficult time this must be, but may God continue to Bless and keep all of you in his loving care. I loved Steve especially in the role of Lt. Dan "Hondo" Harrellson in S.W.A.T. he was born for that particular role, there was not another actor that could play him. In Sincerity Lorraine Williams.

Nancy Stefanik

May 24, 2013

To Steve's Family --

I just wanted to pass my condolences to you on your loss. I've been a fan of Steve's for over 40 years, starting with the Disney Movie he made called "The Wild Country". He gave us many, many years of wonderful entertainment. Thank you for sharing him with us.

Debra Harris

May 24, 2013

So sorry for your lost, I love watching Mr. Steve Forrest movies and appearences in other shows. So great to see how he enjoyed his family, my God Bless your family.

Joan Flowers

May 24, 2013

Mr Forrest & FamilyI First Saw You In "SO BIG" WithJane Wyman & Sterling Hayden AsA Little Girl Because My Mom LovedTCM & I Thought "What A Fine Actor"& I Never Forgot You & From Then OnI Couldn't Wait To See What Acting RoleYou Would Give Us Next!Your Brother DANA ANDREWS Spoke AtMy College Back In The 70'sWhat A Great Body Of Acting The Two Of You Have Given Us! Now You Are TogetherAgain With All Those In Your Family & Fellow Actors Above! I Hope They Get To Enjoy Your Fine Acting In Heaven As We Did Here On Earth~ SO BIG!P.S. You Fought In "Battle Of The Bulge" With My Soldier Dad~May You Both Know The Peace In HeavenYou Gave Many On Earth!Say Hello To My Dad "Theodore Lovejoy"

Sharon MacKenzie

May 23, 2013

To my friend Steve AndrewsI am so sorry to hear your father passed, I am thinking of you and your family. The old family pictures were a nice touch to this tribute, it wasn't hard to pick out you and Forrey. I know it was a long time ago, but suddenly it seemed like just yesterday that Andrews & MacKenzie had their office in the sunroom. Your Dad will be missed for sure.

Terri Zezza

May 23, 2013

We are so sorry to hear about Mr. Forrest passing. He was a great actor especially on SWAT. He is now one of the Lords angels now watching down on us. The Forrest family is in our prayers. Rest in Peace Steve!

Dan Knoll

May 23, 2013

RIP Steve Forest ! Loved the family pictures... So nice to see an actor who cared for his family so much....

jerry sannan

May 23, 2013

Always enjoyed his performances his life and talent will be missed

Jerry Sannan3746 penn Ave nMinneapolis, MN 55412

Terry Wilson

May 23, 2013

Mr. Forrest was a master of his craft. I offer my sincere sympathy to his family and friends.

Charles Hunt

May 23, 2013

My sincerest condolences go out to the family of Steve Forrest who is one of my all-time favorite actors. He was great as Hondo in "S.W.A.T." and as Wes Parmalee on "Dallas" but for me his best work came on episodes of "Gunsmoke" , "The Twilight Zone" and "The Six Million Dollar Man." His brother, Dana Andrews was a fine actor as well and now they're reunited. God bless you, Mr. Forrest and thank you for the many years of entertainment you and Dana gave us.

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